Published on 12/09/2024
The United Arab Emirates has deported four hundred Nigerians back to the country.
The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons disclosed this at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the nation’s capital when officials of the Commission received the returnees.
The Director, Migration Affairs in the Commission, Katherine Udida said the return was facilitated in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser.
She said in line with its mandate, the Commission is providing psychosocial support and a reintegration programme for them.
According to Udida, the Commission is working with relevant Agencies and the Government of the UAE to investigate cases of maltreatment and unjust deportation to ensure justice for the deserved citizens.
“Usually what we do routinely is that when we have these Nigerians that are brought back, we usually would listen to them and where necessary we facilitate pro-bono services for them to return. So, now we’ll have to look at case by case and see if they have a permit. If they do, it’s within their rights to ensure that they return “.
One of the returnees, Harrison Amaoguo said he was unjustly deported and all of his valuables seized.
He urged the Nigerian Government to rise to the occasion by using all diplomatic avenues to ensure that the right of its citizens is not trampled upon.
“My story is that I don’t know what my offence is. Some officers stopped me and asked me to introduce myself and I did and told him my nationality. Then they took me away. I kept asking and no one told me
“I’m more concerned with the Nigerian Consulate in Dubai. The Head of the Consulate should always not believe everything told to them but ask questions from their own people”. Harrison said.
The returnees comprise ninety female adults and three-hundred and ten male adults.
